The first set of longboard wheels I’ll review are one of my all time favorites; Abec 11 Gumballs. I’ve personally used Gumballs on my Loaded Vanguard and they are easily one of the best set of longboard wheels I’ve ever rode on.
Let’s start with some basic technical information:
- Developer: Abec 11
- Name: Gumballs
- Diameter: 76mm
- Width: 53mm
- Contact Patch: 46.5mm
- hub: 25mm
- hub setting: OS Offset
- Edge Profile: Square
- Composition: Urethane
- Durometers: 75A/78A/81A/84A/88A
- Colors: Green or Pink
The Abec 11 Gumballs have been developed primarily for the downhill race discipline however they make for perfect all around skating. Their improved traction makes them especially useful for hard carving such as slalom and giant slalom. Because longboarding is a sport that revolves around speed and maneuvering, these wheels fit for almost any longboarder. They come in various durometers depending on the softness you desire ranging from 75A to 88A. One notable thing about gumballs is that once they are broken in after a decent amount of runs, they actually break into well controlled slides. So if you are looking for a good high traction downhill wheel yet you want to try stand up sliding or learning the Coleman slide, these wheels will work for you. I’ve tried sliding before on a sector 9 complete with sector 9 wheels and had a piece of the wheel actually chip off from only one days worth of sliding. Believe me when I say that the Abec 11 Gumballs are one of the highest performing and highest quality longboard wheels in existence. I personally use 78A Gumballs on my Loaded Vanguard setup and they’ve been my favorite wheels for years. I easily recommend these wheels for anybody serious about longboarding so give them a shot! You won’t be disappointed.
Image courtesy of www.abec11.com
October 10th, 2008 at 12:39 am
These were my first wheels that I put on my Landyachtz DH Race, and they grip like a dream. I transfered my trucks and gumballs (81a) to my brand new dervish and sliding is unbelievably easy on with that board.
June 6th, 2010 at 1:54 am
Jon
How were your experiences with these wheels?
June 4th, 2011 at 7:36 pm
Kinda akward writing in 2011 but r these wheels good for any slides? I’m a beginner.
July 18th, 2011 at 7:43 pm
Did you use bearings with the gumballs?
July 21st, 2011 at 1:35 am
i want to slide, i can slide but not very well, i got these wheels already for free. will these be ok for beginner slding?
September 1st, 2011 at 11:06 pm
These wheels are so soft. I used these wheels on an asphalt road ind it still felt like I was surfing on air. Also very grippy and good for for riding on slick surfaces and slick roads in the winter